Radon is an odorless, colorless gas that can pose serious health risks, particularly in Calgary, where elevated radon levels have become a growing concern. This naturally occurring gas forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. While it can be found across Canada, Calgary’s unique geography and soil composition have led to higher-than-average radon levels in many homes. November is Radon Awareness Month in Canada, making this a perfect time to learn about the risks and preventive measures you can take to protect your family.
Why is Radon a Concern?
Exposure to high levels of radon over time is a significant health risk, as it’s the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. According to Health Canada, radon exposure contributes to about 16% of lung cancer cases nationwide. Calgary’s cold climate also means people spend more time indoors during fall and winter, increasing the potential exposure to radon if levels are high within their homes.
How Do You Know if Your Home Has Radon?
Radon levels vary from home to home, even within the same neighborhood. Testing is the only way to know if radon is present at a dangerous level. Homeowners can purchase a radon testing kit from a local hardware store or online. The test is easy to use and typically involves placing a small device in the lowest level of your home for a period of 91 days to give an accurate reading of radon levels. Short-term tests are also available, but the long-term test is recommended for the most reliable results.
What are Safe Radon Levels?
Health Canada recommends taking action if your home’s radon levels exceed 200 Becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³). While no level of radon is entirely safe, levels below this threshold are generally considered manageable.
What to Do if Your Radon Levels Are High
If your home tests above the recommended level of 200 Bq/m³, here are steps to mitigate radon exposure:
- Consult a Certified Radon Mitigation Specialist: Professionals certified by the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP) can assess your home and design a system to reduce radon levels effectively.
- Install a Radon Mitigation System: The most common mitigation system is a sub-slab depressurization system. This involves placing a pipe beneath your home’s foundation to vent radon gas safely outside. In many cases, installing such a system can reduce radon levels by 90% or more.
- Seal Cracks and Openings: Radon gas often enters through cracks in the foundation or other openings in a home’s structure. Sealing these can help reduce radon entry, although it should typically be combined with a mitigation system for best results.
- Improve Ventilation: Increasing airflow and using ventilation fans can help disperse radon gas, particularly in basements and crawl spaces. While not a complete solution, it can help in combination with other mitigation measures.
Regular Testing for Long-Term Safety
Once a mitigation system is in place, it’s essential to test your home’s radon levels periodically to ensure the system is working effectively. Homeowners should retest every two years, or annually if any changes are made to the home’s foundation or ventilation.
Protecting Your Family’s Health
Addressing radon exposure is one of the best steps Calgary homeowners can take for long-term health and safety. Testing and mitigation are proactive measures that can prevent serious health issues down the road. By staying informed and taking action, homeowners can create a safer, healthier environment for their families.
For more information, visit the Health Canada website or consult a local radon professional for guidance on protecting your home from radon exposure.